Attitude of the Churches

The orthodox churches used every means to prevent the belief in Christ's soon coming from spreading. No liberty was granted in their meetings to those who dared mention a hope of the soon coming of Christ. Professed lovers of Jesus scornfully rejected the tidings that He whom they claimed as their best Friend was soon to visit them. They were excited and angered against those who proclaimed the news of His coming, and who rejoiced that they should speedily behold Him in His glory.LSMS 76.2

Every moment seemed to me of the utmost importance. I felt that we were doing work for eternity, and that the careless and uninterested were in the greatest peril. My faith was unclouded, and I appropriated to myself the precious promises of Jesus. He had said to His disciples, “Ask, and ye shall receive.” I firmly believed that whatever I asked in accordance with the will of God, would certainly be granted to me. I sank in humility at the feet of Jesus, with my heart in harmony with His will.LSMS 76.3

It was my custom to visit families, and engage in earnest prayer with those who were oppressed by fears and despondency. My faith was strong, and I did not doubt for a moment that God would answer my prayers. Without a single exception, the blessing and peace of Jesus rested upon us in answer to our humble petitions and the hearts of the despairing ones were made joyful by light and hope.LSMS 77.1

At this time my health was very poor, my lungs were seriously affected, and my voice failed. The Spirit of God often rested upon me with great power, and my frail body could scarcely endure the glory that flooded my soul. The name of Jesus filled me with rapture. I seemed to breathe in the atmosphere of heaven, and rejoiced in the prospect of soon meeting my Redeemer, and living forever in the light of His countenance.LSMS 77.2